BMW ActiveHybrid 5 (A) vs Lexus GS450h Hybrid 3.5 F Sport (A)
20 Dec 2012|24,492 views
Like a persistent flu bug, the hybrid trend has bitten a number of automakers by now. And it's more so recently, with continental brands like BMW and Audi providing their reiteration of hybrid variant.
Lexus has been a forerunner in this field, least surprising that the marque now boast the largest array of hybrid variants in the industry. When we test drove the GS hybrid earlier, it stood to us as a symbol of the marque's expertise in petrol-electric drivetrain. And while its sportier outfit may be a cause for concern for the true-blue luxury goers, it broadens its appeal to younger audiences.
The ActiveHybrid 5 (AH5) on the other hand is one of the latest contenders in the segment. Built with a radically different recipe, it seems that driving enjoyment has taken the front seat in this hybrid.
Exterior
Despite a more recent debut, the AH5's take on the F10's sheet metal make it feel more dated than the GS. This is not to say that the current 5er is a backward attempt in terms of styling. Instead, the GS' front facet and edgier overalls take credit for a more dynamic and modernistic look.
F Sport trims give the GS a more dynamic look
Lexus has been a forerunner in this field, least surprising that the marque now boast the largest array of hybrid variants in the industry. When we test drove the GS hybrid earlier, it stood to us as a symbol of the marque's expertise in petrol-electric drivetrain. And while its sportier outfit may be a cause for concern for the true-blue luxury goers, it broadens its appeal to younger audiences.
The ActiveHybrid 5 (AH5) on the other hand is one of the latest contenders in the segment. Built with a radically different recipe, it seems that driving enjoyment has taken the front seat in this hybrid.
Exterior
Despite a more recent debut, the AH5's take on the F10's sheet metal make it feel more dated than the GS. This is not to say that the current 5er is a backward attempt in terms of styling. Instead, the GS' front facet and edgier overalls take credit for a more dynamic and modernistic look.
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More notably, the GS also comes in two flavours to better suit the taste of buyers - luxury trim for those more accustomed to nigh-on-high lifestyles; and a more outgoing F Sport trim for those looking for a little more spice on their ride.
It is easy to fall for either of these sedans. BMW reinstates the marque's blueprint snout on the current 5er, coupled with the 'angel eyes' daytime running LED - a sure fire way to attract the right attention anywhere.
Both BMW and Lexus have fitted the hybrids with 18-inch shoes, which looks a tad undersized with pronounced arches. However, the fan-styled rims on the AH5 does look more adept for the hybrid, marking it out as a special variant, making the multi spoke on the Lexus look pale in comparison.
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Interior
Both the Lexus and BMW are reputable names in luxury car making. It is no surprise that excellence are expected from each of them, and that both are highly specced with a long list of standard equipments.
The GS may sport the largest infortainment screen in the market currently; but it is the AH5 that is blessed with an easier system to work with. Simply put, the Lexus' controls require a tad more patience to get used to.
While both cars boasts impressive fit and finish, it is the Lexus that manages to exude a better sense of occasion. Sporting a mixture of leather and aluminium bits, the GS' interior reeks of class.
The GS' interior manages to put off a better sense of occasion
Both the Lexus and BMW are reputable names in luxury car making. It is no surprise that excellence are expected from each of them, and that both are highly specced with a long list of standard equipments.
The GS may sport the largest infortainment screen in the market currently; but it is the AH5 that is blessed with an easier system to work with. Simply put, the Lexus' controls require a tad more patience to get used to.
While both cars boasts impressive fit and finish, it is the Lexus that manages to exude a better sense of occasion. Sporting a mixture of leather and aluminium bits, the GS' interior reeks of class.
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On the other hand, the interior of the AH5 is still very business-like - wooden trims, leather wraps and matt silver bits. If the GS is foie gras, the AH5 is akin to prime ribs - less eventful but nonetheless premium.
AH5's rear seats will easily fit three passengers, while the GS' is more suited for two
That said, the GS falls slightly behind in terms of utility - its centre arched rear bench makes it more suitable for two than three. There is however no such problems with the AH5.
 |  |
That said, the GS falls slightly behind in terms of utility - its centre arched rear bench makes it more suitable for two than three. There is however no such problems with the AH5.
 |
The Drive
The AH5 and GS hybrid are very different machines, right down to the way they drive. Make no mistakes - both are equally as potent when handled the gauntlet, and will coincidentally complete their century sprints in 5.9 seconds.
There is no turning away from the fact that the AH5 is the avid performer of the twin. Figures substantiate the thought - with 340bhp and 450Nm of torque on tap, the AH5 deals almost 100Nm more than the GS.
Off the line, the AH5's sprint feels timelier than sub-six seconds, thanks to the fat band width where the torque is distributed. However, power from the turbocharged inline six does come with a slight lag.
On the other hand, the GS hybrid comes with a naturally aspirated engine, providing creamy, lag free acceleration. The way it gets to speed feels more graceful than the AH5. Still, those expecting an inert, chauffeur-like driving from the GS will be in for a surprise.
For starters, the soundtrack emitted by the V6 makes for a more characterful drive. When set to its stiffest 'Sport +' mode, the GS handles just as well as the 5er, while the gentler modes lend it a lush ride that is synonymous with the brand.
Both cars are as delightful to pilot, especially when put to sportier settings
The synchronous between the GS' petrol and electric drivetrains also give it an edge over the AH5's slightly tardy powertrain response, which feels more nudgy when switching between the drivetrains.
The AH5 and GS hybrid are very different machines, right down to the way they drive. Make no mistakes - both are equally as potent when handled the gauntlet, and will coincidentally complete their century sprints in 5.9 seconds.
There is no turning away from the fact that the AH5 is the avid performer of the twin. Figures substantiate the thought - with 340bhp and 450Nm of torque on tap, the AH5 deals almost 100Nm more than the GS.
Off the line, the AH5's sprint feels timelier than sub-six seconds, thanks to the fat band width where the torque is distributed. However, power from the turbocharged inline six does come with a slight lag.
On the other hand, the GS hybrid comes with a naturally aspirated engine, providing creamy, lag free acceleration. The way it gets to speed feels more graceful than the AH5. Still, those expecting an inert, chauffeur-like driving from the GS will be in for a surprise.
For starters, the soundtrack emitted by the V6 makes for a more characterful drive. When set to its stiffest 'Sport +' mode, the GS handles just as well as the 5er, while the gentler modes lend it a lush ride that is synonymous with the brand.
 |  |
The synchronous between the GS' petrol and electric drivetrains also give it an edge over the AH5's slightly tardy powertrain response, which feels more nudgy when switching between the drivetrains.
More relevantly, hybrids are conceived to shrink petrol bills. Over the three days we had the cars, the GS manages 14km/L compared to 11km/L put off by the AH5, putting it in a better light in terms of eco friendliness.
Conclusion
The AH5 has proved its mettle by its sheer display of driving joy - a departure from the laid back image which hybrids have be known to portray.
It is however, safe to say that fuel economy and eco commitment of a hybrid are some of the most important aspects to look at when shopping for one. On that point, the AH5 trails the GS.
In the other aspects, the Bimmer and Lexus offer equivalent standard of luxuries. Credit where is it due, the GS hybrid is a more notable effort, carrying more soul to it and, hence, making it the more desirable choice.
Like a persistent flu bug, the hybrid trend has bitten a number of automakers by now. And it's more so recently, with continental brands like BMW and Audi providing their reiteration of hybrid variant.
Lexus has been a forerunner in this field, least surprising that the marque now boast the largest array of hybrid variants in the industry. When we test drove the GS hybrid earlier, it stood to us as a symbol of the marque's expertise in petrol-electric drivetrain. And while its sportier outfit may be a cause for concern for the true-blue luxury goers, it broadens its appeal to younger audiences.
The ActiveHybrid 5 (AH5) on the other hand is one of the latest contenders in the segment. Built with a radically different recipe, it seems that driving enjoyment has taken the front seat in this hybrid.
Exterior
Despite a more recent debut, the AH5's take on the F10's sheet metal make it feel more dated than the GS. This is not to say that the current 5er is a backward attempt in terms of styling. Instead, the GS' front facet and edgier overalls take credit for a more dynamic and modernistic look.
Lexus has been a forerunner in this field, least surprising that the marque now boast the largest array of hybrid variants in the industry. When we test drove the GS hybrid earlier, it stood to us as a symbol of the marque's expertise in petrol-electric drivetrain. And while its sportier outfit may be a cause for concern for the true-blue luxury goers, it broadens its appeal to younger audiences.
The ActiveHybrid 5 (AH5) on the other hand is one of the latest contenders in the segment. Built with a radically different recipe, it seems that driving enjoyment has taken the front seat in this hybrid.
Exterior
Despite a more recent debut, the AH5's take on the F10's sheet metal make it feel more dated than the GS. This is not to say that the current 5er is a backward attempt in terms of styling. Instead, the GS' front facet and edgier overalls take credit for a more dynamic and modernistic look.
More notably, the GS also comes in two flavours to better suit the taste of buyers - luxury trim for those more accustomed to nigh-on-high lifestyles; and a more outgoing F Sport trim for those looking for a little more spice on their ride.
It is easy to fall for either of these sedans. BMW reinstates the marque's blueprint snout on the current 5er, coupled with the 'angel eyes' daytime running LED - a sure fire way to attract the right attention anywhere.
Both BMW and Lexus have fitted the hybrids with 18-inch shoes, which looks a tad undersized with pronounced arches. However, the fan-styled rims on the AH5 does look more adept for the hybrid, marking it out as a special variant, making the multi spoke on the Lexus look pale in comparison.
It is easy to fall for either of these sedans. BMW reinstates the marque's blueprint snout on the current 5er, coupled with the 'angel eyes' daytime running LED - a sure fire way to attract the right attention anywhere.
Both BMW and Lexus have fitted the hybrids with 18-inch shoes, which looks a tad undersized with pronounced arches. However, the fan-styled rims on the AH5 does look more adept for the hybrid, marking it out as a special variant, making the multi spoke on the Lexus look pale in comparison.
Interior
Both the Lexus and BMW are reputable names in luxury car making. It is no surprise that excellence are expected from each of them, and that both are highly specced with a long list of standard equipments.
The GS may sport the largest infortainment screen in the market currently; but it is the AH5 that is blessed with an easier system to work with. Simply put, the Lexus' controls require a tad more patience to get used to.
While both cars boasts impressive fit and finish, it is the Lexus that manages to exude a better sense of occasion. Sporting a mixture of leather and aluminium bits, the GS' interior reeks of class.
Both the Lexus and BMW are reputable names in luxury car making. It is no surprise that excellence are expected from each of them, and that both are highly specced with a long list of standard equipments.
The GS may sport the largest infortainment screen in the market currently; but it is the AH5 that is blessed with an easier system to work with. Simply put, the Lexus' controls require a tad more patience to get used to.
While both cars boasts impressive fit and finish, it is the Lexus that manages to exude a better sense of occasion. Sporting a mixture of leather and aluminium bits, the GS' interior reeks of class.
On the other hand, the interior of the AH5 is still very business-like - wooden trims, leather wraps and matt silver bits. If the GS is foie gras, the AH5 is akin to prime ribs - less eventful but nonetheless premium.
That said, the GS falls slightly behind in terms of utility - its centre arched rear bench makes it more suitable for two than three. There is however no such problems with the AH5.
That said, the GS falls slightly behind in terms of utility - its centre arched rear bench makes it more suitable for two than three. There is however no such problems with the AH5.
The Drive
The AH5 and GS hybrid are very different machines, right down to the way they drive. Make no mistakes - both are equally as potent when handled the gauntlet, and will coincidentally complete their century sprints in 5.9 seconds.
There is no turning away from the fact that the AH5 is the avid performer of the twin. Figures substantiate the thought - with 340bhp and 450Nm of torque on tap, the AH5 deals almost 100Nm more than the GS.
Off the line, the AH5's sprint feels timelier than sub-six seconds, thanks to the fat band width where the torque is distributed. However, power from the turbocharged inline six does come with a slight lag.
On the other hand, the GS hybrid comes with a naturally aspirated engine, providing creamy, lag free acceleration. The way it gets to speed feels more graceful than the AH5. Still, those expecting an inert, chauffeur-like driving from the GS will be in for a surprise.
For starters, the soundtrack emitted by the V6 makes for a more characterful drive. When set to its stiffest 'Sport +' mode, the GS handles just as well as the 5er, while the gentler modes lend it a lush ride that is synonymous with the brand.
The synchronous between the GS' petrol and electric drivetrains also give it an edge over the AH5's slightly tardy powertrain response, which feels more nudgy when switching between the drivetrains.
The AH5 and GS hybrid are very different machines, right down to the way they drive. Make no mistakes - both are equally as potent when handled the gauntlet, and will coincidentally complete their century sprints in 5.9 seconds.
There is no turning away from the fact that the AH5 is the avid performer of the twin. Figures substantiate the thought - with 340bhp and 450Nm of torque on tap, the AH5 deals almost 100Nm more than the GS.
Off the line, the AH5's sprint feels timelier than sub-six seconds, thanks to the fat band width where the torque is distributed. However, power from the turbocharged inline six does come with a slight lag.
On the other hand, the GS hybrid comes with a naturally aspirated engine, providing creamy, lag free acceleration. The way it gets to speed feels more graceful than the AH5. Still, those expecting an inert, chauffeur-like driving from the GS will be in for a surprise.
For starters, the soundtrack emitted by the V6 makes for a more characterful drive. When set to its stiffest 'Sport +' mode, the GS handles just as well as the 5er, while the gentler modes lend it a lush ride that is synonymous with the brand.
The synchronous between the GS' petrol and electric drivetrains also give it an edge over the AH5's slightly tardy powertrain response, which feels more nudgy when switching between the drivetrains.
More relevantly, hybrids are conceived to shrink petrol bills. Over the three days we had the cars, the GS manages 14km/L compared to 11km/L put off by the AH5, putting it in a better light in terms of eco friendliness.
Conclusion
The AH5 has proved its mettle by its sheer display of driving joy - a departure from the laid back image which hybrids have be known to portray.
It is however, safe to say that fuel economy and eco commitment of a hybrid are some of the most important aspects to look at when shopping for one. On that point, the AH5 trails the GS.
In the other aspects, the Bimmer and Lexus offer equivalent standard of luxuries. Credit where is it due, the GS hybrid is a more notable effort, carrying more soul to it and, hence, making it the more desirable choice.
Conclusion
The AH5 has proved its mettle by its sheer display of driving joy - a departure from the laid back image which hybrids have be known to portray.
It is however, safe to say that fuel economy and eco commitment of a hybrid are some of the most important aspects to look at when shopping for one. On that point, the AH5 trails the GS.
In the other aspects, the Bimmer and Lexus offer equivalent standard of luxuries. Credit where is it due, the GS hybrid is a more notable effort, carrying more soul to it and, hence, making it the more desirable choice.
Photos by Julian Kho
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Car Information
Lexus GS450h Hybrid 3.5 F Sport (A)
CAT B|Petrol-Electric|16.4km/L
Horsepower
257kW (345 bhp)
Torque
352 Nm
Acceleration
5.9sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Lexus GS450h HybridBMW 5 Series Sedan Hybrid ActiveHybrid 5 (A)
CAT B|Petrol-Electric|14.7km/L
Horsepower
254kW (340 bhp)
Torque
450 Nm
Acceleration
5.9sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used BMW 5 Series Sedan Hybrid
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